US Congressman, Mayor of New York City. A member of the Democratic Party, he served New York's 17th and 18th Congressional Districts in the United States House of Representatives from 1969 until 1977. Later, he served as the Mayor of New York City from 1978 until 1989. Born to Russian-Jewish immigrants, his father worked in the garment industry until suffering from the fallout of "the Depression". Ed was raised in Newark, New Jersey and attended City College of New York, prior to his service as a combat infantryman with the United States Army during World War II. He was recipient of two battle citations and attained the rank of sergeant during this experience. Upon his return home, he attained his law degree from New York University Law School and commenced practice in New York City. He launched his political career in 1963, as the Democratic district leader of Greenwich Village and went onto serve in the New York City Council. During his tenure in Congress, Koch served on the Banking and Currency Committee and the Appropriations Committee. He was a vocal opponent of the Vietnam War and pushed for financial aid to health care, mass transit and family assistance programs. Koch established himself as a popular liberal figure nationally. As Mayor of New York City, Koch took over a troubled city on the verge of bankruptcy. However, his brand of humor and colorfulness brought a sense of optimism and hopefulness to the residence. He will be remembered for his often quirky quotations, one in particular when asking about his progress in office, he stated "How'm I doing?". To many, he was one of the most popular mayors to serve New York City. After his departure from office, he authored a few books and starred in a version of "The People's Court" in 1997. Koch died of complications from heart disease. (bio by: C.S.)